The IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) is urging lawmakers to amend the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to strengthen enforcement and better safeguard the IT-BPM sector.
In a statement to Context.PH, IBPAP said its proposed reforms aim to close enforcement gaps affecting outsourcing firms that handle client data, especially those serving overseas clients.
“Our proposed amendments are designed to enhance deterrence, improve prosecution outcomes, and ensure the legal framework aligns with the operational realities of the IT-BPM industry,” the group said.
Key proposals include allowing IT-BPM service providers to directly initiate cybercrime cases when breaches involve data they manage—even if the data owner is abroad.
The amendments also seek to expand legal definitions to reflect modern digital operations, including software-based systems and emerging cybercrime tactics, while recognizing non-physical harms such as contractual damage.
IBPAP is also advocating broader liability for those who facilitate or conspire in cybercrimes, alongside streamlining procedures to prevent delays in filing cases.
At the same time, the group stresses the importance of protecting confidential data during investigations and court proceedings.
While formal legislative progress is limited, IBPAP is actively engaging lawmakers, including Sen. Bam Aquino and Rep. Brian Poe-Llamanzares, to push for reforms and support the continued growth of the IT-BPM sector.
